Antitussives (By mouth)

Introduction:

Treats dry coughs caused by colds, flu, and lung infections.

Brand Name(s):

Delsym, Creomulsion Cough, Silphen DM, Father John's Medicine, Creomulsion For Children, Babee Cof Syrup, Robitussin Pediatric Cough, Children's Triaminic Long Acting Cough, Miltuss, Good Neighbor Tussin, Quality Choice Cough Relief, Long-Acting Cough Suppressant, Robitussin Cough Long Acting, Robitussin Maximum Strength, Solotuss

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to an antitussive (cough suppressants), or if you are also using an MAO inhibitor such as Nardil®, Parnate®, Eldepryl®, or Marplan® or you have used one within the past 2 weeks. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Lozenge, Liquid Filled Capsule, Capsule, Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. You might need to shake the liquid before using it.
  • Swallow the liquid-filled capsule whole, such as Tessalon Perles® or Tessalon Capsules®. Do not chew, break, or suck on the liquid-filled capsule.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Do not drink alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking sleeping pills, sedatives, cold and allergy medicines, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, or pain pills before you take this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
  • Talk to your doctor if you have ever had asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart disease, seizure disorders, an overactive thyroid, chronic bronchitis, or a liver disease before you take this medicine.
  • Call your doctor if your cough does not improve or last longer than 7 days.
  • Call your doctor if your cough gets worse, if you cough up yellow mucus, or if you have a fever, rash, sore throat, vomiting, or continuing headache with the cough.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Slowed or difficulty breathing
  • Severe drowsiness
  • Rash or itching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Drowsiness, dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Upset stomach
  • Nervousness or restlessness
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